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wax mill

What is everyones thoughts on buying a wax mill once established in beekeeping ? a new metal roller mill is 1150 bucks + tax vs buying foundation ? i have been debating this and right now it's probably not an option for me , but once i grow i think i could save enough money to have the mill paid for over time.

Re: wax mill

We just had a demonstration at our last bee meeting on how to make foundation with a mold. It's pretty easy and cost around $10 for all the supplies to make it(not including wax). You basically make two hinged wood frames that each have a plaster mold in them. Pour wax and close them together. Let it cool for 30-40 seconds and remove the sheet of wax. You don't even have to trim it to size.

Re: wax mill

Originally Posted by Tiny Barn Farm

We just had a demonstration at our last bee meeting on how to make foundation with a mold. It's pretty easy and cost around $10 for all the supplies to make it(not including wax). You basically make two hinged wood frames that each have a plaster mold in them. Pour wax and close them together. Let it cool for 30-40 seconds and remove the sheet of wax. You don't even have to trim it to size.

Do you care to elaborate on that procedure? How did you make the mold? How well do the bees draw it out?

Re: wax mill

Originally Posted by jdmidwest

Do you care to elaborate on that procedure? How did you make the mold? How well do the bees draw it out?

You basically make 2 wooden frames with the inside dimensions being the size of the foundation and attach hinges to one side. You then put a piece of foundation(lightly coated in food grade oil so it doesn't stick) in one of them and pour plaster in on top of it. When dry flip the frame over so foundation is on top and close the hinges so the empty frame is now on top. Then pour the top full of plaster and let dry. When everything is dry remove the sheet of foundation. There were some other tricks like screwing screws into the sides of the frames to help hold the plaster and you also soak the mold in water before making foundation. You also spray it with some soapy water to help the new foundation release. This guy has been using it for years with great success and never has to buy new foundation.

Re: wax mill

Originally Posted by Ben Little

You mean a foundation press? i saw them on youtube and didn't know if they were any good for making foundation. i guess i could try it and see for myself.

Ben

It is similar to some I have seen on youtube as well except you use plaster in wood frames instead of making very costly silicone molds. At $10 per mold you can afford to make 3 for deep, med, and shallow foundation. If it doesn't work for you or you don't like it the most you are out is $10 and your time.